Fire Prevention Week 2026 is October 4–10, and this year’s theme from the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.” This year’s campaign focuses on the simple choices we can make every time we charge our phones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, scooters, and other rechargeable devices.
Lithium-ion batteries have become part of everyday life. They store a large amount of energy in a small space and power many of the devices we depend on every day.
However, if a lithium-ion battery is damaged, defective, or charged incorrectly, it can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. Developing safe charging habits can help reduce the risk of these fires in our homes and communities.
Use Your Charging Superpowers
NFPA recommends several important steps to help keep you and your family safe:
- Buy products that meet recognized safety Look for devices listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as UL, ETL, or CSA.
- Use the correct Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Cheap or off-brand chargers may not meet important safety standards.
- Charge on a hard, flat Avoid charging devices on beds, couches, pillows, or other soft surfaces that can trap heat and block airflow.
- Unplug when fully Leaving a device plugged in after it reaches a full charge can increase heat and stress on the battery.
- Know the warning Stop using a device if the battery becomes very hot, swells, smells unusual, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds.
- Charge larger devices outside when NFPA recommends charging items such as e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outdoors when possible and making sure charging devices do not block an exit.
Don’t Forget the Basics of Home Fire Safety
Battery safety is only one part of protecting your home. Working smoke alarms and a home fire escape plan can make a life-saving difference. Test your smoke alarms regularly and make sure everyone in your household knows how to get outside quickly if a fire occurs.
To discuss our Smoke Alarm & Battery Program with one of our awesome Fire Corps volunteers, please contact 520-393-7505.
This Fire Prevention Week, take a few minutes to look around your home and identify the rechargeable devices you use every day. Check your chargers, inspect batteries for damage, make sure devices are being charged in safe locations, and talk with members of your household about safe charging habits.
For additional Fire Prevention Week resources, educational materials, activities, and safety information, visit www.fpw.org.
Help us celebrate Fire Prevention Week with a warm and welcoming Pancake Breakfast! Come together with your community, enjoy a delicious breakfast, meet members of the Santa Rita Fire District, and learn more about protecting your family and home from fire.
Date: Friday, October 9, 2026
Time: 7:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
Location: Frank J. Nugent Station 151, 250 N. La Cañada Dr., Green Valley, AZ
We'll be serving up fresh pancakes, coffee, and good conversation while raising awareness about the importance of fire prevention and safety in our homes and workplaces.
Bring your appetite—and your fire safety questions!
